Nicole was suspicious of Clayton’s deceitful blather. She was not someone who could be coaxed with mere words.

Clayton met her gaze and said frankly, “Less than a year… But every day since I met you, I’ve been very happy to find out that you’re single. Nicole, let’s start anew. My name is Clayton Sloan. I was widowed three years ago, and I have a son.”

He lowered his eyes and smiled a little self-deprecatingly. “I know that sounds like poor conditions, but I have a lot of money. I’m not quite sure on the exact amount, but if you want to know, I can get someone to tally it up, but it may take a little longer because I can’t remember all the assets that I have. Also…”

Clayton paused for a moment. He looked serious, and his warm gaze seemed to glow.

“Michael is actually my late brother’s son. Due to certain religious beliefs and traditions, I had no choice but to marry Michael’s mother so that her family would agree to her giving birth to Michael.”

Nicole stiffened. She suddenly did